Healthy Living

“The colonoscopy isn’t so bad; it’s the prep that’s so horrible.” Every healthcare provider has heard that cry countless times from patients. Gastroenterology specialists are always trying to make the preparation for the procedure easier and more acceptable, but the bottom line is a colonoscopy is still the best way to get screened for colon cancer.

Here are some startling facts about the disease, from the Colon Cancer Alliance:

• It is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
• It affects men and women equally.
• 75 percent of people diagnosed have no family history.
• It mostly affects people over age 50, but can occur at any age.

Colon cancer often has no symptoms; but it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider if you do experience the following symptoms:

• Change in bowel habits
• Diarrhea, constipation, vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Constant tiredness
• Blood in stool
• Gas, bloating, fullness, cramps

On March 31, two clinicians from Connecticut GI, Dr. You Sung Sang, and APRN Jeannine Hampton, will present a free community education program, “Let’s Talk About Colonoscopies. Really.” They will speak about the importance of having a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer, and also about the “dreaded prep.” They will also discuss some modifications that are available. You can call (855) HHC-HERE if you would like to register for this event.

Katie Couric brought much-needed attention to the seriousness of this disease when she spoke openly on the loss of her beloved husband Jay to colon cancer at the age of 42. She actually underwent a colonoscopy procedure on national TV, all in an effort to show people how important this screening is. Ms. Couric urges people, “If detected early, there is a 90% cure rate for colon cancer. Get screened so the people you love can love you for a long, long time.”

For more information about colon cancer, visit www.ccalliance.org.